Pedophilia is running rampant, not only in the US but all over the world. Children are being sexually exploited by a pedophile at the rate of 1 out of 6 boys before the age of 16 and 1 out of 3 girls before the age of 18 (1 out of 4 before the age of 14). These statistics are based on reported cases of sexual abuse. I shudder to think of how many cases have gone unreported.

Unfortunately, the Internet has provided the pedophile with a wonderful tool for locating unsuspecting children for his/her sexual pleasure. The Internet has also provided an avenue for the pedophile to band together with their peers. They've found the Internet to be the perfect place to offer each other support, news, "love" stories and even the means to exchange child pornography.

Well, guess what? That very same tool is available to you and to me. If, on your journeys through cyberspace, you run across a site that appears to be exploiting children, by all means, report it. Pay attention when your children are online. Monitor what they are doing and who they are talking to. Don't allow the Internet to become an electronic baby-sitter.

We, as citizens concerned for the safety of children everywhere, must do something to stop this horrific crime NOW! Don't allow another innocent child to become the victim of these predators. They are stalking, seducing and convincing our children that what they do is right. They say they do it in the name of "Love". (These law breakers claim to be sexually stimulated by children ranging in ages from birth to 18 years.)

A pedophile doesn't have a certain "look" that distinguishes them as such. They could be married with children of their own. They could be the next door neighbor, the baby-sitter or a relative. Pedophiles tend to choose occupations that put them in close contact with children such as teaching, counseling, daycare, scouting, coaching, etc. (I'm certainly not saying that all people in these professions are pedophiles because the overwhelming majority are not.) What I am saying is be aware of whom your children are spending their time with. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Trust your instincts. Listen to your child and really hear what he/she is saying. Be concerned if your child shows fear or mistrust of an adult. Children are basically honest and open about their feelings so trust their instincts, too. I've listed a number of organizations you can contact if you suspect someone of being a pedophile or you've come across a site that appears to be owned by a pedophile. Don't hesitate to contact them to report your findings. Wouldn't you rather be safe that sorry?